Our animal companions are all very cute and charming, but they are never as adorable as they are when they are kittens. This probably isn’t a coincidence: little Fluffy is very mischievous and feisty! Fall can be a particularly hazardous time for our feline buddies. Read on as a Fayetteville, NC vet offers some advice on keeping little Fluffy safe.

Decorations

Keep your pint-sized pal in mind as you are decorating for the season. Anything small or sharp is a potential hazard. You’ll also need to keep anything with long strings or threads out of paws’ reach. These are serious choking risks, and can cause potentially deadly internal injuries if ingested.

Chemicals

Cats are very sensitive to chemical ingestions. That’s a huge concern at this time of year. Many people are treating their yards with fertilizers, pesticides, and fungicides. Your furry friend could easily ingest some of these toxins, just by walking through a puddle or a recently-treated patch.

Veterinary Care

Kittens may see themselves as lions, but they are in truth very vulnerable to illness and injury. Fluffy will need to come in for parasite control and vaccinations. We also recommend spay/neuter surgery.

Plants

Kitties are very curious, and they are pretty much bound and determined to sample anything and everything within reach. This can be very dangerous! Some toxic plants include chrysanthemums, lilies, and crocuses. The ASPCA has a list here. Keep anything unsafe in spots Fluffy can’t reach.

Weather

Little Fluffy will also be quite sensitive to temperature extremes. Little Fluffy may get quite chilly when the temperatures fall. Make sure that she has plenty of warm spots to cuddle up in. You’ll also want to check beneath blankets, cushions, and recliners before sitting down. Baby cats can fit into some tiny spots, which puts them in serious danger of being stepped or sat on.

Tips

One of the best things that you can do for your tiny furball is keep her inside. This is also a good time to start teaching your feline pal the do’s and don’ts of being a good kitty. Discourage bad habits, such as getting on counters, by clapping your hands or squirting your furball with water. We also advise keeping your furry pal indoors.

As your local Fayetteville, NC animal clinic, we are dedicated to offering top-notch veterinary care. Please feel free to contact us anytime!